House In Vale Bem, Portugal by Espaço a3

Espaço a3 created this modern house located in Almada, Portugal between the city and the beach. The project is the work of architects Espaco a3, under the supervision of Carlos Pinto Velosa with collaboration by Fernando Pires and Angela Aguiar. This house appears to be quite conventional, in line with the type of home in the neighbourhood. On entering however, one can find a highly original use of space. Limited by size, the project area, a mere 820 sq.m, the architects were challenged to provide the feel of openness and yet maintain the privacy which, the client desired.

The irregular shaped living area with its high ceilings leads to an open plan kitchen overlooking the garden and pool. The bedrooms are also to be found on the same floor but with lower ceilings which provide a more intimate feel to the rooms. Natural light floods in from picture windows which lead onto patios and gardens.

High wooden fences create areas around the gardens, giving the feeling of isolation from the main road yet not restricting light from entering the house, and allowing the client the freedom to enjoy nature and the privacy which he requested.